Writing well is the main focus for NEWS. Without a script, we can't tell the story. This applies for NEWS as well as Fiction productions. However, there are different rules for writing for NEWS as opposed to writing for Film. This is because we are telling and giving facts here. Not fiction.
Rules of NEWS writing:
1. Have something to say
2. Read
3. Manipulate language
4. Plan english
5. Single syllables
6. Know your medium
7. What's the aim of the script?
8. Short sentences
9. Clarity and Precise
Writing techniques which can help:
- Alliteration e.g. the players taking polo to the park
- Avoid repetition, say things once, tease out the thoughts and set them up
- Workplay
- Rule of three - One or two is too few, three is just right e.g. "Woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb across my head"
- Similes and metaphors
- Personification
- Exaggeration
- Relatable comparisons
The 'Page F' test
- Precise
Use language correctly! SPAG/spelling and grammar
- Accuracy
Ensure you present the FACTS. Make sure the sources are reliable. This goes for the names of the people involved as well as the actual story. Research 2013 Sally berlow & BBC
An example of how badly this can effect someone is a story from 2013
- Germane
Make it relevant!! KNOW YOUR STORY. Don't waste time on unnecessary elements
- Equitable
Make sure the story is balanced. View the story objectively. Tackle subjects with sensitivity and fairness
- Flow
Logic meaning the natural order of the story elements. Tie-writing, using scripting
Write it in the correct order
- Write the lead in first, the intro to the story, then the package and then your TAG. BEWARE:
- Don't repeat the lead in within your package
- Beware wordy writing
- Overkill facts and figures
- Facts and figures - SIMPLE!
Writing a lead:
- Attention grabbing
Distilling your idea into a clear TOP LINE is a great way of both clarifying your purpose and in turn communicating that to the viewer. They can then decide whether it's relevant to them. Think of it like your log line. Give them enough but not the whole picture
- Concise and not overloaded facts
- Should sound fresh and new
- Be written in an 'Active voice'
- Be creative
- Conversational in tone
- Use narrative to tell the story
Write to pictures
Whatever you are SAYING, is what we should be SEEING. Have relevant footage to the story. It's a story about cooking, we need to be in a kitchen with someone cooking. Almost like spoon feeding the audience with the pictures. The pictures need to work with the story to make it flow and work nicely. Don't just have random cut away shots and don't just stay on an interview unless it works for the story.
Scripting a news package
- Work out key elements of your film on paper before filming
- Work out your shot list and scripted elements such as a PTC
- Scripting will allow you to be sure you know WHAT you need to shoot
- Ensure you give your reporter PURPOSE - make then ACTIVE in your film. Doing something relevant on camera, getting them involved in some way with the subject.
